HOPE stands for “Helping Others by Providing Education.”
We believe the jail can be a place where positive change in a person’s life can start reform.
The HOPE program gives inmates education and training while in jail. It also connects them to resources when they return to their community. We believe this will create a positive impact and help reduce repeat offenses.
Inmates learn skills that create better opportunities when they return to their community.
We offer 3 types of classes to inmates. Once they leave jail, we match them with community resources. That helps them continue their education and skill development.
Classes are offered 2.5 hours daily, Monday through Friday.
School programs
High school diploma
G.E.D. (General Education Development)
Adult enrichment classes
Financial literacy
Virtual reality trade skills training
Employment preparation
Voter education
Life skills support
Community support services after release from jail
In August 2023, the HOPE Program expanded beyond the walls of the Hennepin County Jail with the launch of HOPE Hub, a navigation and service hub for justice-involved residents. Referrals to this program come from the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation.
Housed within the EMERGE Second Chance Center, 1179 15th Avenue SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, HOPE Hub’s goal is to connect individuals in or leaving the custody of HCSO or on conditional release from DOCCR with a “one-stop-shop” of resources for job training, education, or other needs. Program navigators will connect participants to tools and resources that will help them to succeed.
